Goldendoodles are beloved for their affectionate nature, hypoallergenic coats, and energetic personalities. As a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, their growth patterns can vary. One of the most common questions from new pet parents is, “When do Goldendoodle puppies stop growing?” In this detailed guide, we’ll break down growth stages by size type (Mini, Medium, and Standard), key developmental milestones, and tips for supporting healthy growth.
Table of Contents
- Goldendoodle Size Categories
- Growth Timeline by Size
- Factors That Affect Growth
- How to Track Growth
- Nutrition Tips for Growing Goldendoodles
- Exercise Guidelines by Age
- FAQ: Goldendoodle Puppy Growth
- Conclusion
Goldendoodle Size Categories
Goldendoodles come in various sizes, typically categorized by the size of the Poodle parent:
- Toy/Mini Goldendoodle: 15–30 pounds, up to 14 inches tall
- Medium Goldendoodle: 30–45 pounds, 15–20 inches tall
- Standard Goldendoodle: 45–90 pounds, over 20 inches tall
The size of your Goldendoodle plays a major role in determining when they will stop growing.
Growth Timeline by Size
Mini Goldendoodles
- Rapid growth occurs between 2–6 months
- Most reach adult size by 8–11 months
- May continue to fill out slightly up to 12–14 months
Medium Goldendoodles
- Steady growth from 2–9 months
- Most reach full height by 10–12 months
- Final weight typically achieved by 12–16 months
Standard Goldendoodles
- Fastest growth between 2–9 months
- Height stabilizes around 12–14 months
- Weight continues to increase until 18–24 months
Summary: Most Goldendoodles stop growing in height by 12–14 months, but may continue to gain weight and muscle tone until 18–24 months, especially the standard size.
Factors That Affect Growth
Not every Goldendoodle grows at the same rate. Several factors can influence growth:
- Genetics: Parental size plays the biggest role in determining puppy size.
- Diet: High-quality, balanced nutrition supports proper bone and muscle development.
- Health: Illness, parasites, or malnutrition can stunt growth.
- Spay/Neuter Timing: Early sterilization may influence joint development and final size.
- Activity Level: Regular movement helps develop muscle tone and maintain healthy weight.
How to Track Growth
Monitoring your Goldendoodle’s growth helps ensure they stay on a healthy trajectory:
- Weekly Weigh-ins: Weigh your puppy at the same time each week.
- Use a Growth Chart: Compare progress with breed averages (consult your vet).
- Body Condition Score (BCS): Your vet can assess fat distribution and muscle development.
Nutrition Tips for Growing Goldendoodles
Feeding your puppy the right diet ensures healthy skeletal and muscular development:
- Choose Puppy-Specific Food: Especially for large-breed puppies if your Goldendoodle is over 50 lbs at maturity.
- Feed at Regular Intervals: 3 meals/day until 6 months, then shift to 2 meals/day.
- Limit Treats: Keep them under 10% of daily caloric intake.
- Fresh Water: Always provide clean, fresh water to support metabolism.
Exercise Guidelines by Age
Exercise helps prevent obesity and promotes healthy development, but too much can strain joints:
- Under 3 months: Light supervised play only
- 3–6 months: Short walks + controlled indoor play (10 mins per month of age per walk)
- 6–12 months: Longer walks, basic agility, fetch games
- 12+ months: Full adult activity level — hiking, running, advanced training
FAQ: Goldendoodle Puppy Growth
How big will my Goldendoodle get?
This depends on their genetic background. Toy Goldendoodles may stay under 30 pounds, while Standards can reach up to 90 pounds.
How can I tell if my Goldendoodle is overweight?
You should be able to feel ribs easily without pressing hard and see a visible waist from above.
Do Goldendoodles have growth spurts?
Yes. Like many puppies, they go through rapid growth phases, especially between 2–6 months.
Will neutering/spaying affect growth?
Early spay/neuter may slightly alter growth plate closure and final size. Consult your vet for the best timing.
Can I switch to adult food at 6 months?
Not yet. Most Goldendoodles should stay on puppy food until 12–15 months depending on size and vet guidance.
Conclusion
When do Goldendoodle puppies stop growing? While most reach full height by 12–14 months, weight and muscle development can continue up to 24 months—especially in Standard Goldendoodles. Tracking your puppy’s size, offering a nutritious diet, and ensuring appropriate exercise will all help your Goldendoodle grow into a healthy, well-proportioned adult. If you ever have concerns about their growth rate, don’t hesitate to speak with your veterinarian for personalized guidance.